In the framework of the European Union–funded Migration, Environment and Climate Change: Evidence for Policy (MECLEP) project, this report analyses the case of Manam islanders in Papua New Guinea. Approximately 9,000 people were evacuated to the north coast of Madang Province due to volcanic activity. Since then, the Government of Papua New Guinea aims at finding a durable solution for the displaced persons. The Madang Provincial Government has therefore established a resettlement strategy for a permanent site further inland. Meanwhile, due to the tensions and violence experienced, some of the islanders have decided to move back especially on the northern village of Baliau.

The report recommends that the Madang Provincial Government should involve the Manam communities by allowing them to participate in finding a community-driven long-term solution to the problem and rehabilitating essential services in the care centres and on Manam.